A Vegan Thanksgiving Guide in New York City

A Vegan Thanksgiving Guide in New York City

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, reflecting on gratitude, and, of course, indulging in a delicious meal. For many, the holiday feast has traditionally centered around turkey and other animal-based dishes, but as plant-based diets gain popularity, more people are embracing vegan options for Thanksgiving. Whether you're a long-time vegan, exploring plant-based eating, or hosting guests with dietary preferences, New York City offers a wealth of options to help you celebrate a compassionate and delicious Thanksgiving.

From top vegan restaurants serving Thanksgiving menus to creative at-home recipe ideas, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan a vegan Thanksgiving in NYC that’s sure to impress your guests—without sacrificing flavor or tradition.

Best Vegan Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Menus

If you prefer to dine out or enjoy a ready-made meal, several vegan restaurants in New York City offer special Thanksgiving menus that bring creativity and flair to the table.

Candle 79

Candle 79 is a fine-dining institution on the Upper East Side, known for its elegant ambiance and upscale vegan cuisine. Every Thanksgiving, they roll out an exquisite prix-fixe menu that highlights the bounty of the season with dishes that rival any traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Guests can expect elevated creations like roasted autumn squash soup, seitan “turkey” roulade stuffed with chestnuts and cranberries, and seasonal sides like mashed sweet potatoes with caramelized onions. For dessert, indulge in pumpkin pie topped with cashew cream or a decadent chocolate tart.

Reservations fill up quickly for Thanksgiving at Candle 79, so be sure to book in advance for a sophisticated plant-based dining experience.

By Chloe

For those looking for a more casual, laid-back dining option, By Chloe offers a festive vegan twist on traditional Thanksgiving favorites. Their Thanksgiving specials usually feature dishes like "turkey" sandwiches made with house-made seitan, mushroom gravy, and cranberry sauce, alongside sides like sweet potato fries and roasted Brussels sprouts. By Chloe's fun, fast-casual atmosphere is perfect for families or groups who want to enjoy a hearty plant-based meal without the formalities.

With locations in several neighborhoods around the city, including the West Village and Flatiron District, By Chloe makes it easy to grab a vegan feast, whether dining in or ordering for takeout.

DIY Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

For those who love the process of preparing a home-cooked meal, crafting a plant-based Thanksgiving feast at home can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are some delicious vegan recipes that capture the flavors of Thanksgiving, minus the animal products.

Appetizer: Stuffed Mushrooms with Walnut Pâté

Start your meal with a crowd-pleasing appetizer of savory stuffed mushrooms. Fill large button mushrooms with a rich walnut pâté made from blended walnuts, garlic, sautéed onions, and fresh thyme. This simple yet sophisticated appetizer is sure to get your guests excited for the rest of the meal.

Main Course: Lentil and Vegetable Loaf with Mushroom Gravy

For the main event, try a hearty lentil and vegetable loaf that serves as the perfect turkey alternative. Made with protein-rich lentils, grated carrots, celery, and onions, this loaf is packed with flavor and texture. A blend of herbs like sage and rosemary gives it that traditional Thanksgiving taste. Serve with a generous ladle of mushroom gravy made from sautéed cremini mushrooms, vegetable broth, and a dash of soy sauce for umami depth.

Sides: Maple-Glazed Carrots and Vegan Mac and Cheese

No Thanksgiving is complete without an array of comforting side dishes. Maple-glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness to the table. Simply roast baby carrots with olive oil, salt, and maple syrup, and finish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

For a creamy, indulgent side, whip up a batch of vegan mac and cheese. Use cashews, nutritional yeast, and almond milk to create a smooth, cheesy sauce that coats every bite of pasta. This dish is a favorite among kids and adults alike, making it a great addition to any Thanksgiving spread.

Dessert: Pumpkin Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

End the meal on a high note with a classic vegan pumpkin pie. A flaky, buttery crust made from coconut oil pairs beautifully with a spiced pumpkin filling sweetened with maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Top each slice with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a creamy, dairy-free touch.

Baking Vegan Treats

Baking for Thanksgiving can be one of the most enjoyable parts of preparing for the holiday. For those new to vegan baking, mastering substitutions for eggs and dairy can seem daunting, but with a few tips, it's easy to achieve delicious results.

  • Egg Substitutes: For recipes that call for eggs, use flaxseed or chia seed as a natural binding agent. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seed with three tablespoons of water to replace one egg.
  • Dairy-Free Milk: Replace cow’s milk with almond, soy, or oat milk in any recipe. These plant-based milks work well in both savory dishes and desserts.
  • Butter Alternatives: Vegan butter or coconut oil can replace butter in pie crusts, cookies, and cakes without compromising flavor or texture.

For an extra burst of seasonal flavor, try adding ingredients like apple cider vinegar to balance sweetness or spices like cardamom and ginger for warmth.

Shopping for Vegan Ingredients

Living in New York City gives you access to a wide range of stores that stock vegan-friendly ingredients, making it easy to find everything you need to create the perfect plant-based Thanksgiving meal.

  • Whole Foods Market: With multiple locations across the city, Whole Foods is a go-to for organic and specialty vegan products. You can find everything from plant-based turkey roasts to dairy-free cheeses, as well as seasonal produce for all your recipes.
  • Trader Joe's: Known for its affordable prices, Trader Joe’s offers a variety of vegan staples, including vegan marshmallows, plant-based milk, and meat alternatives. They also have a great selection of seasonal products like pumpkin-spiced almond beverages and ready-made vegan holiday sides.
  • Local Co-ops and Farmers' Markets: For the freshest seasonal produce, visit one of NYC’s many farmers' markets, such as the Union Square Greenmarket. Supporting local farmers ensures you're getting high-quality, fresh ingredients while reducing your carbon footprint.

Hosting a Vegan Thanksgiving

Hosting a vegan Thanksgiving can be an opportunity to introduce your guests to the joy of plant-based eating. Here are a few tips for hosting a successful vegan Thanksgiving gathering:

  • Menu Planning: Be sure to plan a menu that accommodates all dietary preferences, even if some guests aren’t vegan. Serve dishes that are so flavorful and filling that no one will miss the meat. Include a mix of protein-rich mains, satisfying sides, and indulgent desserts.
  • Decorating Ideas: Create a warm, inviting atmosphere with natural fall decorations like pumpkins, gourds, and dried corn. Consider using eco-friendly table settings made from recycled materials, and embrace a cozy, rustic aesthetic.
  • Addressing Common Questions: Be prepared for questions from non-vegan guests about the food and ingredients. Use this as an opportunity to share the benefits of plant-based eating, from health benefits to environmental impact, without coming across as pushy.

Community Events

If you prefer to celebrate in a larger community setting, New York City offers several vegan Thanksgiving events and potlucks. These gatherings are perfect for those who want to connect with like-minded individuals and enjoy a plant-based feast without the cooking. Look out for annual events hosted by local vegan organizations or join a Thanksgiving cooking class where attendees learn to meake dishes to share at BiteUnite.

Whether you're dining out at one of NYC's top vegan restaurants or preparing a homemade meal, a vegan Thanksgiving offers endless opportunities to celebrate the holiday in a compassionate and delicious way. With creative plant-based recipes, vegan-friendly shopping options, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, you can host a Thanksgiving that's both memorable and meaningful. Embrace the season, gather around the table, and enjoy a feast that’s as kind to animals and the planet as it is tasty.